The Ficus elastica, also known as the Rubber Ficus, is native to Asia. If he is used to the tropical climate and therefore to hot and humid temperatures, it is quite possible to succeed in growing him indoors, with our climatic conditions. Yes this plant remains quite easy to maintainHowever, we must ensure that the best conditions are met for optimized growth.
Thus, the location of the Ficus elastica is of particular importance and can strongly influence the condition of the plant. If you want to know where to place your Ficus elastica, this is where it happens!
Place your Ficus elastica in a bright room
After good planting, in properly drained soil, you will now have to choose a suitable location for your Ficus elastica. This plant is in great need of light and its position in your home is therefore of great importance. It is thanks to the presence of light that Ficus elastica transforms the various elements drawn by its roots into carbohydrates which contribute to its growth. Thus, it is recommended to install your Ficus elastica as close as possible to a window, making sure to filter the sun's rays during the sunniest periods of the year, between May and October.
The Ficus elastica does not appreciate too strong sunstroke and it must therefore be placed away from the incident rays of the sun. Conversely, in winter, do not hesitate to place it in full light. The glass in the window can create a magnifying effect which results in more heat being given off by the light rays. If your Ficus elastica is exposed to direct sunlight, it may suffer from burns which results in discoloration or brown spots on the leaves.
Conversely, if your Ficus elastica lacks light, certain symptoms may appear. A plant that lacks light will tend to wither. The Ficus elastica then tends to discolor and its stems lengthen while becoming thinner and thinner. It could even be that the growth of your Ficus elastica is impacted by a lack of light..
Place your Ficus elastica in a room at constant temperature
Ficus elastica is a plant that has a reputation for being hardy. However, it will not be able to develop properly at any temperature. Thus, the plant thrives between 10 and 15 ° C but it can develop between 19 and 20 ° C, which corresponds roughly to the temperature of a room. The important thing is to maintain a constant temperature during the day and to avoid sudden changes in the atmosphere.
To maintain an ideal temperature, avoid turning off your heater during the day, when you are away from your home. Likewise, do not overheat your interior at night when you are at home. Remember that the radiator can be bad for the Ficus elastica. The heat given off by the machine tends to make the air dry, whether it is near the machine or in the entire room. Thus, the radiator tends to dehydrate the Ficus elastica by depriving it of moisture. It is therefore recommended to favor a temperate place, without a radiator, with temperatures of around 18 ° C. In winter, it will therefore be necessary to be even more vigilant with regard to the maintenance of Ficus elastica..
Place your Ficus elastica in a humid environment, away from drafts
For a healthy Ficus elastica, you must take care that its location allows it to benefit from a good level of humidity, all year round, regardless of the temperatures. Watering the plant is very important, especially in winter when the heating dries out your home. On a daily basis, you can regularly spray a clear water on the leaves of the Ficus elastica while taking care to protect it as much as possible from the dry air diffused by your radiator.
The choice of the location of your Ficus elastica is decisive for its growth. In winter, it is absolutely necessary to avoid excessive variations in temperature. By placing the pot near a wall, the Ficus elastica will take advantage of the warmth of the room while being protected from drafts. Indeed, these are harmful for Ficus elastica, whose leaves are quite sensitive. With a slightly elevated location, you can also protect it from the coolness of the ground.
With a well-chosen location, your Ficus elastica will be able to grow and develop optimally. A stable environment, sheltered from external aggressions, will allow the plant to benefit from optimal conditions, summer and winter, to grow quietly. For a Ficus elastica in great shape, remember to provide it with an atmosphere in which it will be good, all year round. With a little common sense and care, you will give your Ficus elastica everything it needs to thrive in the best possible way.
